The MDC condemns as cheap grand-standing today’s so-called demonstration in Harare by hired Zanu PF youths on petty issues which have nothing to do with the daily challenges facing the people of Zimbabwe.

The MDC is a peaceful party. We condemn the violent and rowdy youths who disturbed peaceful Zimbabweans going about their daily business and assaulted journalist, Andrison Manyere and political activist, Tonderai Nyahunzvi.

Zanu PF has every reason to peacefully demonstrate as this is the essence of true democracy. However, we take great exception when instead of using such useful means to address bread and butter issues, they squander such a great opportunity by public posturing and cheap politicking.  There are more pressing issues affecting the people such as food, jobs, health, education and the power black-outs which have seriously affected ordinary residents and silenced our factories.

The people are worried about critical issues affecting their daily lives; issues such as the slow wheels of justice in dealing with perpetrators of violence, the slow pace of media and constitutional reforms, the high school fees and the prospect of another grueling season of hunger and starvation. The people want Zanu PF to abide by the Global Political Agreement (GPA), not to engage in shameful acts of grandstanding disguised as “demonstrations.”

Instead of focusing on divisive politics that corrodes and destroys the fabric of unity, we believe Zimbabweans must deal with issues that unite the people. This is no time to engage on false debate, but on issues that advance the people’s cause and bring about a democratic and prosperous Zimbabwe .

Zimbabweans want real change. They want and deserve a total break from the dark season of terror and intimidation. They want hope, dignity, security, freedom and prosperity.

Together to the end, marching to a new Zimbabwe .